Explanatory note

This Order authorises the use of specified rail vehicles forming Class 458 electrical multiple-units, although they do not conform with certain requirements of the Rail Vehicle Accessibility Regulations (S.I 1998/2456 as amended by S.I. 2000/3215) because:

• door controls are not positioned as required;

• more force than is permitted is required to operate the corridor door control devices;

• internal door controls are not illuminated;

• there is no step illumination;

• handrails at external doors are not positioned as required;

• the characters for internal visual announcement are smaller than required; and

• the toilet cubicle for disabled persons in wheelchairs does not meet the requirement that such a person may wash and dry his hands without moving from the toilet and the requirement that there must be sufficient space for a reference wheelchair in front of and beside the toilet.

It sets a time limit on the authorisation and imposes conditions.

A full regulatory impact assessment has not been produced for this instrument as it has no impact on the costs of business.